Prevalence and risk factors for reduced sound tolerance (hyperacusis) in children. (3rd March 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hall, Amanda J.; Humphriss, Rachel; Baguley, David M.; Parker, Melanie; Steer, Colin D.
• Is Part Of: International journal of audiology. Volume 55:Number 3(2016:Mar.)
• Page Start: 135
• Page End: 141
• Publication Date: 2016-03-03
• Subjects: ALSPAC -- hyperacusis -- hearing; Audiology -- Periodicals; Hearing disorders -- Periodicals; Deafness -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Hearing Disorders -- Periodicals; Hearing -- Periodicals; 617.8
• DOI: 10.3109/14992027.2015.1092055
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1499-2027

Abstract

Abstract: Objective : To estimate the prevalence of reduced sound tolerance (hyperacusis) in a UK population of 11-year-old children and examine the association of early life and auditory risk factors with report of hyperacusis. Design : A prospective UK population-based study. Study sample : A total of 7097 eleven-year-old children within the Avon longitudinal study of parents and children (ALSPAC) were asked about sound tolerance; hearing and middle-ear function was measured using audiometry, otoacoustic emissions, and tympanometry. Information on neonatal risk factors and socioeconomic factors were obtained through parental questionnaires. Results : 3.7% (95% CI 3.25, 4.14) children reported hyperacusis. Hyperacusis report was less likely in females (adj OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.49, 0.85), and was more likely with higher maternal education level (adj OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.08, 2.72) and with readmission to hospital in first four weeks (adj OR 1.98, 95% CI 1.20, 3.25). Report of hyperacusis was associated with larger amplitude otoacoustic emissions but with no other auditory factors. Conclusions : The prevalence of hyperacusis in the population of 11-year-old UK children is estimated to be 3.7%. It is more common in boys.